Some Residents Forced To Evacuate As Rim Fire Grows

TUOLUMNE COUNTY (CBS13) – The massive Rim Fire is still raging out of control in Tuolumne County and is now the 16th largest fire in California history, burning more than 129,000 acres.

At just 10 years old, Layla Smith understands her home could be destroyed by the fire. Her dad says packing up the truck was difficult.

“Kinda on edge, stressed out, trying to determine where the fire is and if we need to leave or not,” said Brandon Smith.

The only thing the Smiths can do, like many locals, is to have faith firefighters can stop the flames before they reach their homes. But it’s a job that’s become more intense every day.

Jo and Bud Buchanan didn’t think they would have to evacuate until they went to get their mail. As they came back up to their home, they were told to turn around by firefighters. With nothing from their home, Jo says she didn’t have the medicine she needs.

“The deputy went and got it for us. Then we found they put a stop and couldn’t do it anymore,” she said. “We got lucky!”

Despite being forced to leave their homes and the uncertainty, residents are confident firefighters will get a handle on the fire soon.